Fluorometer

[hpark4]

We are looking for algae's chlorophyll measurement tool. Where can we rent or buy low cost fluorometer to measure the chlorophyll level?
If the cost of fluorometer is high, what will be the best way and easy way to measure chlorophyll level?

[barretttomlinson]

Hi,

Here are a few resources for measuring chlorophyl, mostly by using a spectrophotometer

http://employees.csbsju.edu/SSAUPE/biol ... _quant.htm

http://www.chebucto.ns.ca/ccn/info/Scie ... hotometric

http://dipin.kent.edu/chlorophyll.htm

http://www.ecy.wa.gov/programs/wq/plant ... phyll.html

http://journals.tubitak.gov.tr/botany/i ... -96040.pdf

http://waterontheweb.org/curricula/ws/u ... 5-2003.pdf

Here is an EPA method for measuring chlorophyl by Flourescence;
http://www.epa.gov/nerlcwww/m445_0.pdf

And other resources using flourescence:

http://www.turnerdesigns.com/t2/doc/app ... _5101.html


Here is the first page of an article that looks relevant

http://www.springerlink.com/content/kl04qht7w415c02u/

I believe that you will find that buying or renting either a spectrophotometer or a fluorometer is way too expensive for a science fair project( cost is likwly more than $10000 for most instruments). I think you will find spectrophotometers are much easier to access than fluorometers. Most colleges have spectrophotometers in their laboratories. In your shoes, I would try to develop a relationship with a chemist in your local area and try to see if he/she can help you get access to an instrument for long enough to analyze your samples. Alternatively you might approach a manufacturer of the spectrometer or flourometer of your choice. Sometimes they have application laboratories with application chemists or sales people who might be willing to help you run a few samples on a demonstration basis. If you attempt either of these routes you must be prepared to be super organized with your samples and procedure well defined and ready, as if you can get access at all, it will likely be a one time thing for an hour or two.

I wish you every success with your project. It sounds like a fun undertaking!

Barrett Tomlinson

[hpark4]

Thanks a lot for the information. Your information helps this project greatly. Thanks again.

[stanthescienceman]

wat up yo